The Philadelphia Freedom Valley YMCA and the YMCA of Burlington and Camden Counties recently completed the final phase of a merger process that united the organizations effective Jan. 1.

The union will continue operating as the Philadelphia Freedom Valley YMCA, one of the largest YMCA associations in the country, with 21 locations.

The announcement follows a formal agreement made nearly a year ago in a management arrangement announced early last year. For the YMCA of Burlington and Camden Counties, it meant adding Shaun Elliott, president and CEO of the Freedom Valley YMCA, and a back-office support system that includes operations, accounting, human resources and marketing functions.

Elliott’s background includes leading 16 branches in the Philadelphia area and now the Mount Laurel YMCA and Burlington-Riverfront YMCA in Burlington City.

“Both the YMCA of Burlington and Camden Counties and the Philadelphia Freedom Valley YMCA have an exceptional history and tradition of serving their members and communities,” Elliott said. “Our Y’s are committed to helping members live a healthier lifestyle, giving kids a safe place to play, and connecting our neighbors.”